On to Jerusalem

Paul's departure from Miletus marked the beginning of the final leg of his long journey toward Jerusalem. Every step of the way the Spirit pressed upon him the difficulties that lay ahead for him, and that testimony only intensified as he drew nearer to his destination. As with his Lord before him, bonds and affliction awaited Paul in Jerusalem; as the rebellious city had received its Messiah, so it would receive His servant and ambassador. Paul knew exactly what was coming, but he couldn't be dissuaded - not simply because he was determined to bring the Gentiles' offering to the Jerusalem saints, but because he sensed that Jerusalem was to play an important role in the outworking of Christ's purpose for him. Paul had long intended to minister the gospel in Rome, and Jesus Himself would soon disclose to him that Jerusalem was to serve that outcome.